An instrument can't exactly be expected to defend itself, and the larger it is, the more it's at risk of getting bumped or scratched while travelling, or falling victim to dust and spills while at rest. Since most keyboards aren't small, that leads to one important conclusion: keyboard instrument cases, gig bags and covers are vital to their protection. Any time your keyboard leaves the house, it should be packed up in a case or gig bag - and every minute it's at home but not actively being played is the right time to have it safely covered. To put it simply, using covers, gig bags and cases with your keyboard should be considered a routine part of owning it.

The good news is that you won't have to look far to find the protection your instrument deserves. It's all right here in this section, and the main question to ask yourself is simply what level of defense you need. For example, if you'll be travelling by air or touring over long distances, the best way to go is probably a rigid instrument case like the Road Runner Keyboard Flight Case with Casters or the SKB Waterproof Injection Molded 61-Note Keyboard Case. The hard exterior shells on these cases can stand up to a lot of punishment, so your keyboard will be safely shielded from even the roughest handling.

As much protection as they offer, there is one set of drawbacks to hard-shell cases: their size and weight. If you're making a short trip across town, you'll probably be interested in a more carry-friendly option instead, and that's where gig bags like the Musician's Gear 88-Key Keyboard Gig Bag come into the picture. This bag is a top seller because it embodies all the best qualities about gig bags: it's lightweight but still offers a good degree of protection, it provides multiple carrying options with its shoulder strap and handles, and it has external storage for sheet music, pedals and other accessories.

Of course, your keyboard isn't travelling all the time, and when you just need some light protection between plays at home, something like the Gator 88 Key Stretchy Keyboard Cover will be just the ticket. That's the great thing about the keyboard instrument cases, gig bags and covers in this section: with so many to choose from, there's a perfect fit for every situation. Staying or going, touring or flying or local gigging - all your bases are covered... and your keyboard will be, too.